Port Saint Louis (MGPSL)

The port is currently closed for commercial operations. Information for the port is retained should the port reopen. It is a small port used almost entirely for the shipment of sugar. It consists of an open roadstead off the river mouth and a small quay with port facilities at Port Saint Louis.

Tropical.

Port Saint Louis (Antsohimbondrona) is located on the NW coast of Madagascar, within the mouth of Manondro River.

LOA 55m, 400DWT

Anchorage for freighters is usually on the alignment of the leading lights, from 3-4nm offshore, in depths of approx 9.0m, good holding ground (13°05'S 048°50'E).

From a position between the reef extending from Lohatanjon Andemby (13°18'S 048°28'E) and the spit extending from Tanjona Ampilahoa (11nm NW), the route to Port Saint Louis leads generally ENE to the vicinity of a buoy, moored in the approach to Port Saint Louis. From the approach buoy, the track leads ESE over the bar then along the river channel which is marked with lightbuoys. Only shallow draught, flat bottomed craft can ascend the Mahebo River above Port Saint Louis. Directions to the anchorage: The alignment 110° of the leading lights, in the intensified sector (108°-112°) of the rear light, leads to the anchorage.

BA 3873. Admiralty Pilot NP39.

A local pilot is available for passage to Port Saint Louis.

There are no port limits.

The following leading lights are exhibited: Front light: White truncated triangle, red stripe, on a metal framework tower, 11m in height. This is situated on the coast. Rear light: Similar structure, 16m in height, 0.9nm from the front light.

The bar dries at 0.9m.

Non tidal.

No traffic schemes have been adopted.

Small tugs are available for towing lighters.

The rainy season is from Dec-Mar and the dry season is from May-Nov. During the season of NW winds, Nov-Apr, the anchorage off the port is affected by swell from N, which can be heavy. Land breezes can cause a rough sea in the anchorage.

Port Saint Louis 13°05'S 48°50'E Pilotage: No pilot station. Ocean going vessels work cargo in the anchorage.

Radio: The port monitors 6210.4kHz. VHF: Ch 16.

Seaman's passports are required for inspection.

All usual ship's documents are required.

ETA is to be sent by fax to "Sirama Antananarivo Madagascar".

NOR is tendered only after entrance formalities have been executed.